Highlights: Canada to Accept TOEFL Essentials for PR Applications under Economic Programs
- IRCC will soon accept TOEFL Essentials as proof of English proficiency for permanent residence applications.
- The test covers listening, reading, writing, and speaking through real-life, task-based assessments.
- Eligible for use in Express Entry, FSWP, FSTP, CEC, PNPs, and the Atlantic Immigration Program.
- Lasts approximately 1.5 hours, offering instant unofficial scores for reading and listening.
- Official scores are released within six days and can be sent to unlimited institutions free of charge.
*Want to apply for Canada PR? Let Y-Axis guide you with the steps.
What Is TOEFL Essentials and Who Can Take It?
Administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS), TOEFL Essentials is a globally recognized English language test designed to evaluate real-world communication skills. On August 21, 2025, ETS was officially added as a designated language testing agency by IRCC. While the test is not yet accepted, IRCC and ETS are working together to finalise timelines and test centre availability.
Once implemented, TOEFL Essentials will be available to candidates applying under the following economic immigration programs:
- Express Entry-managed programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) (subject to provincial discretion)
The test itself includes four timed sections—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking—and features a short, unscored Personal Video Statement. It is designed to simulate practical, real-world interactions, making it relevant for both academic and everyday use.
*Want to improve your English language test scores? Avail the Y-Axis Coaching services to ace your scores!
How TOEFL Essentials Compares with Canada’s Approved Language Tests
Currently, IRCC accepts three English language tests:
- IELTS (General Training)
- CELPIP (General)
- Pearson Test of English (PTE Core)
TOEFL Essentials will soon join this list, offering a more flexible and fast-paced option. While CELPIP and IELTS are well known among Indian candidates, the inclusion of TOEFL Essentials gives applicants another globally respected option—particularly useful for those who have already taken TOEFL for academic purposes.
The test also allows free score reporting to an unlimited number of institutions, which can be a cost-effective benefit for applicants exploring multiple immigration or study options.
*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with Canadian immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy!
For recent immigration updates on Canada, check out Y-Axis Canada Immigration News!
Highlights: Canada to Accept TOEFL Essentials for PR Applications under Economic Programs
- IRCC will soon accept TOEFL Essentials as proof of English proficiency for permanent residence applications.
- The test covers listening, reading, writing, and speaking through real-life, task-based assessments.
- Eligible for use in Express Entry, FSWP, FSTP, CEC, PNPs, and the Atlantic Immigration Program.
- Lasts approximately 1.5 hours, offering instant unofficial scores for reading and listening.
- Official scores are released within six days and can be sent to unlimited institutions free of charge.
*Want to apply for Canada PR? Let Y-Axis guide you with the steps.
What Is TOEFL Essentials and Who Can Take It?
Administered by Educational Testing Service (ETS), TOEFL Essentials is a globally recognized English language test designed to evaluate real-world communication skills. On August 21, 2025, ETS was officially added as a designated language testing agency by IRCC. While the test is not yet accepted, IRCC and ETS are working together to finalise timelines and test centre availability.
Once implemented, TOEFL Essentials will be available to candidates applying under the following economic immigration programs:
- Express Entry-managed programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) (subject to provincial discretion)
The test itself includes four timed sections—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking—and features a short, unscored Personal Video Statement. It is designed to simulate practical, real-world interactions, making it relevant for both academic and everyday use.
*Want to improve your English language test scores? Avail the Y-Axis Coaching services to ace your scores!
How TOEFL Essentials Compares with Canada’s Approved Language Tests
Currently, IRCC accepts three English language tests:
- IELTS (General Training)
- CELPIP (General)
- Pearson Test of English (PTE Core)
TOEFL Essentials will soon join this list, offering a more flexible and fast-paced option. While CELPIP and IELTS are well known among Indian candidates, the inclusion of TOEFL Essentials gives applicants another globally respected option—particularly useful for those who have already taken TOEFL for academic purposes.
The test also allows free score reporting to an unlimited number of institutions, which can be a cost-effective benefit for applicants exploring multiple immigration or study options.
*Are you looking for step-by-step assistance with Canadian immigration? Contact Y-Axis, the world’s No. 1 overseas immigration consultancy!
For recent immigration updates on Canada, check out Y-Axis Canada Immigration News!